Classic V8s head to auction

By Chris Thompson, 26 Apr 2018News

Plenty of classic Aussie and American muscle is up for grabs at the next Shannons auction in Melbourne.

The lot expected to pick up the biggest price is also the one which makes the biggest impression, a 1970 Plymouth Superbird.

Based on the Road Runner (hence it’s fitted with a ‘meep-meep’ horn and Road Runner cartoon decals), the Superbird is arguably the pinnacle of ostentatious muscle.

This particular car has 13,395 (miles, we assume) showing on the odometer, and looks essentially flawless for a car its age.

One of only 135 fitted with the 426 (7.0-litre) Hemi engine, Shannons believes this car is rare enough to expect a $520,000 to $580,000 sale price.

Next-most expensive is a car in less-than perfect condition. It’s not often a car in ‘project’ condition asks for six-figures, but welcome to classic car hunting in 2018.

A 1971 HQ Monaro GTS 350, looking rather used and abused, is expected to sell for up to $130K.

In truth, used is not the word that best describes this example… it’s been parked since 1986. It’s complete, original, but ultimately in need of restoration if it’ll ever be driven again.

Shannons makes sure to note that it’s selling unregistered.

Next, a ’72 VH Valiant Charger, a minter 770SE with 5.6-litre E55 340 V8 is set to pick up around the $100K mark, though Shannons says it could stretch to more like $115K. It’s spotless, with only 13,692 miles showing.

But the V8s in this auction don’t end there. Also featuring is a’74 Falcon XB which could pick up $120,000, with just 82,400km on the clock and a 5.8-litre Cleveland hooked up to a 4-speed manual ‘box.

Blue Oval fans looking for something younger will find solace in an XE Fairmont Ghia with ESP and a tidy white-gold theme.

It’s been swapped from a sixer to now house a 4.9 V8, which has been fettled by famed engine builder Mick Webb. Around $35,000 will put you in the running to own it.